Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, recognition program, or family/friends reunion, wouldn’t you love to hear your participants describe their experience with these words? They will – if you take them to Galápagos with Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic.

How do I know? I heard these words – and spoke them myself.

Last year, I sailed on National Geographic Endeavour to Galápagos islands, and it changed me. Since my Lindblad expedition, I’ve become an avid bird watcher and wildlife photographer (much to the amazement of my family and friends). And although we were strangers at the beginning of our journey, my travel companions and I have stayed in touch; we all want to keep the memories of our expedition alive.

Can you honestly say that your last incentive program or group travel event had that kind of profound effect on the participants?

A Lindblad expedition is so much more than a passive “through the bus window” travel program. It’s a richly immersive destination experience. Your participants will return, as I did, with incredible stories to share, a priceless stock of memories, great photos, and bonds that can only be forged through shared adventures and inspiring experiences.

What Makes a Lindblad-National Geographic Expedition Experience Extraordinary?

No one knows Galápagos like Lindblad Expeditions - they’ve been traveling there longer than any other operator. You’ll benefit from Lindblad’s 40+ years of experience and relationships in Galápagos, as well as their partnership with National Geographic.

With Lindblad’s unique 360º approach to Galápagos, you and your group will discover the islands as Darwin did—aboard an expedition ship equipped to give you the most authentic experience possible. Each new day brings the excitement of  new discoveries! Shared adventures strengthen camaraderie as you explore the islands and encounter fascinating wildlife, up close and personal.

A Few Highlights of Your Galápagos Expedition Experience

Abundant Wildlife Encounters

Blue-footed boobies and Darwin’s finches. Marine Iguanas. Pink flamingos. Sea lions lounging on the beaches and giant tortoises grazing in the highlands.

Your group will have the opportunity to see and photograph the unique animals and birds of Galápagos, legendary for their lack of  instinctive fear of humans. Being able to get so close to wild creatures in their native habitats is an experience they’ll never forget! (How many people do you know who have witnessed the blue-footed booby mating dance?)

Daily Discoveries and Choice of Activities

There are plenty of ways for your participants to discover Galápagos – they can hike, kayak, or take a Zodiac cruise to and around intriguing islands. Lindblad-National Geographic ships are outfitted with tandem and single kayaks for personal, water-level exploration of the scenic coastlines. Shoreline cruises aboard Zodiacs are perfect for relaxed exploration with a naturalist, and a great platform for photography.

It’s easy to see the mind-body connection at work during your expedition – stress is simply not an option! If the hiking, kayaking and snorkeling in pristine settings aren’t enough, there are early morning stretching sessions led by your Wellness Specialist and nature-inspired treatments in the ship’s spa. The floating massage platform on National Geographic Endeavour also received rave reviews during my expedition!

Exploring the Undersea

The waters of Galápagos are teaming with marine life, and everyone in your group will have the chance to snorkel almost every day – sometimes twice a day. Snorkeling with playful Galápagos sea lions is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s sure to be on their list of favorite memories (it’s one of mine)!

The ships carry complete snorkel gear, including wetsuits in every size, so they won’t have to tote gear from home. If some folks in your group prefer to stay dry, that’s OK, too. They can visit the undersea via video shot by Lindlbad’s undersea specialist, on the lounge’s plasma screens.  National Geographic Endeavour also has a glass-bottom boat for dry undersea exploring.

Evening Recap

Each evening at cocktail hour the entire expedition community gathers in the lounge for “Recap.” While your group enjoys cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, various naturalists will give talks, the undersea specialist may show video, and your expedition leader will outline the following day’s schedule.

During my expedition, we were privileged to travel with Alexandra Cousteau, who regaled us with fascinating stories of her famous grandfather, Jacques Cousteau. This was our group’s favorite time to bond over shared experiences and make plans for the next day.

The Expedition Team

The Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic expedition team is the best in the business. Every voyage sails with a veteran Expedition Leader and team of highly skilled naturalists who are dedicated to sharing their passion for the Galápagos islands.

Other members of the team include an Undersea Specialist and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified Photo Instructor. All are deeply knowledgeable, friendly, and more than happy to share information or answer any questions from your group.

Take Your Best Shot – Photography Experts Sail with You

With unique landscapes and beaches teeming with wildlife, Galápagos is a photographer’s paradise. What makes it even better? Your group will have the benefit of a trained professional as a traveling companion. The service of a Lindblad-National Geographic certified Photo Instructor is included on every Galápagos voyage to make sure everyone captures the best moments and brings home extraordinary photos.

Fresh and Delicious Food, Outstanding Service

While the feeling on board a Lindblad ship is relaxed and casual, the service from staff and crew is superb – always friendly, but professional and attentive.

Chefs use fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, including locally grown produce, sustainably-caught fish, and other local and indigenous products. There are fish or meat choices at every meal, and the chef will happily accommodate vegetarian or other special diet requests. Open seating in the dining room makes for easy mingling.

Sociable Spaces, Quiet Corners

The lounge is the heart of the ship; this is where your group will gather for talks, daily Recap, and perhaps some local entertainment. During my expedition, a few traditional musicians and dancers were brought on board one evening – an unexpected treat that got everyone on their feet!

The bow is another place where guests mingle with staff to scan the sea for marine mammals; our group enjoyed a champagne toast here with the Captain during a sunset reception. But the ship offers any number of places to pass time enjoyably alone, or with a small group—from the library to the furnished outdoor decks.

Two Ships, Year-round in Galápagos

Lindblad Expeditions is the only U.S. company who owns and operates two ships in Galápagos, 96-passenger National Geographic Islander and 48-passenger National Geographic Endeavour. The two ships operate year-round and both offer full-week itineraries.

If you want a completely customized and exclusive experience, either vessel would be great for a full-ship charter program, depending on the size of your group.

It’s Always the Best Season in Galápagos

Any time of year is a great time to visit Galápagos – due to its equatorial temperatures, the weather is pleasant year-round, and wildlife is always abundant. No matter when you’re considering a Galápagos expedition, you can be sure that the wildlife will be plentiful and active.

You can also rest assured your group will return from their Galápagos expedition inspired, motivated, and possibly changed – for good!

Learn more:

For more information about these Lindblad expeditions to Galápagos or any other amazing places they visit, give us a call at 888.713.1371 or contact Karen Kuttner-Dimitry: 212.261.9030 / 800.783.6656 ext 1030. You can also email Karen: karenk@expeditions.com

But if you want to push the needle into the excellent zone, you no longer have the luxury of just keeping up – you have to sprint to stay one step ahead.

It’s all about “unfamiliar terrain” – the new meeting frontier.

In this Midcourse Corrections Blog post “Conference Organizers Should Transition from Familiar Terrain”, Jeff Hurt nails it.

Conference organizers and meeting planners too often stick with familiar terrain. We plan our meetings the way we’ve always done them… We’ve got to transition from familiar terrain to new surroundings.” Read the full article.

Jeff reminds us that successful meetings and conferences are no longer designed to deliver information to passive audiences in traditional formats and old familiar places. In this digital age, attendees – from first-time Millennials to Boomer veterans – want to connect and dissect, discuss, analyze and process meeting content.

How to Navigate Unfamiliar Terrain

Choosing a venue that provides built-in opportunities for small group gatherings, networking, and exchange of ideas is the way to go. Adding in creative spaces that stimulate the senses is another. A meeting venue that provides healthy meal options, brain-friendly activities and places to unwind is a plus. 

Shared travel experiences and adventures? Now that’s icing on the cake!

We are, of course, talking about cruise ships. Why not consider one for your next “Unfamiliar Terrain” meeting or event? Seasite.com is a good place to begin your search.

Here are just a few of the things they loved:

• The ship’s rich, sophisticated design elements
• The Waterfront promenade, lined with a variety of bars and restaurants open to the ocean – a groundbreaking concept and industry first
• Great choice of restaurants, including 11complimentary dining venues
• Fabulous Speigel Tent and jaw-dropping Cirque-style dinner show
• Exciting sports facilities, including a bungee cord 18 decks above the ocean (Joyce braved this!)
• Taking a dance class from New York’s iconic Rockettes (the ship’s godmothers)
• Inviting, intimate feel of dining rooms and lounges
• The inaugural activities simulcast from 8 different venues (what a great idea for a regional conference!)

…and the list goes on.

The 4,000-passenger Norwegian Breakaway will sail from New York year-round, and is currently offering 7-night cruises to Bermuda (the ship will sail to Bahamas mid-October to mid-April).

If  you’d like to experience a little Breakaway yourself, take a look at this short video from Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line and all their ships.

Meetings at sea are a creative solution for planners who want to add unique team experiences, but are still challenged with tight budgets. Planners will find plenty of ways to incorporate team-building into a group cruise event, both on board the ship and ashore – many at no cost or a minimal fee.

There’s a wide variety of challenging activities you can include during your program to promote teamwork. From rock-climbing or golf tournaments at sea, to beach Olympics on a cruise line private island, you can create memorable experiences during a meeting at sea that simply can’t be duplicated at a land-based hotel.

Challenging Adventures Onboard

Royal Caribbean ships offer exciting on board facilities that are great for team-building events, including private FlowRider lessons,exclusive use of the rock wall, mini-golf tournaments, private use of the ice rink, or ZipLine instruction on Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.

The cruise line’s new Quantum-class ship will feature innovative facilities that can be used for group events, including the exhilarating iFly skydiving experience.

Carnival Cruises new SportsSquare outdoor recreation area features a 9-hole, 2-level mini-golf and a challenging ropes course – the first at sea.

Norwegian Breakaway’s three-story sports complex boasts the largest ropes course at sea to challenge your group with more than 40 different elements. Other oceanview thrills to test their mettle include the zip track and The Plank, extending eight feet over the side of the ship.

Team-building Ashore

If you prefer team-building fun on land, the cruise line “private islands” in the Caribbean and Bahamas are perfect destinations for private group events. Most of our meeting at sea attendees and top performers agree that the island experience is one of the highlights of a tropical cruise.

And what’s not to love? Pristine beaches, water sports, zip lines, beach barbecue and tropical rhythms, and of course – fun-filled Beach Olympics, customized just for them.

You might already know about Royal Caribbean’s roster of short cruises from South Florida, but we just found about a few special “gem” itineraries in the Caribbean and Mediterranean on the incredible Oasis of the Seas.

These sailings are great opportunities for short meetings, incentives, or any other type of group event.

In Europe or Caribbean, Unlike Any Venue You’ll Find on Land – or At Sea!

This groundbreaking 5,400-passenger ship features seven unique neighborhoods (reserve one for an unforgettable group event!), an oceanside AquaTheater with high-dive shows, world-class entertainment including a Broadway musical, a zip line soaring nine decks high, dining options for every taste, the most advanced technology at sea, and so much more.

TASTE OF THE MED

5 night – Sept 13, 2014 – Roundtrip Barcelona, visits Rome/Civitavecchia; Naples, Italy

5 night – Sept 18, 2014 – Roundtrip Barcelona, visits Rome/Civitavecchia; Naples, Italy

CARIBBEAN ESCAPE

5 night – Oct 27, 2014 – Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale, visits Nassau, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico

BAHAMAS WEEKEND GETAWAY

2 night – Aug 30, 2014 (Sat-Mon) – Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale with visit to Nassau

Getting Down to Business

On Oasis of the Seas you’ll find a variety of complimentary function and meeting venues that can accommodate from 16 to 1,400 guests, with various set-up styles available. Complimentary audio/visual equipment is also available on board.

All four Oasis of the Seas sailings are great for any type of group event, and are PERFECT incentive opportunities!

More Ship Details

For a detailed Oasis of the Sea Planner’s Guide, click here. You can send your group request directly to Royal Caribbean International.

When Royal Caribbean International’s first Quantum class ship, 4,142-passenger Quantum of the Seas, is launched in fall of 2014, cruising will take a giant leap forward with a groundbreaking lineup of “firsts at sea” experiences and extraordinary spaces. All these new onboard features are designed to elicit just one reaction from your group: WOW!

Here are two “first at sea” experiences

RipCord by iFly – The First Skydiving Experience At Sea

iFly Ripcord on Quantum of the Seas

This thrilling adventure will transport your attendees more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey. Everyone from first-time flyers to seasoned skydivers will enjoy the sheer thrill and exhilaration of skydiving in a safe, controlled, and simulated environment. Just think of the impact on your event – this is an adventure of a lifetime, and an experience that’s pretty hard to top!

The North Star – Journey Above the Sea

Northstar Capsule on Quantum of the Seas

This engineering marvel that will also take your attendees to new heights – literally! A jewel-shaped glass capsule will transport them on a spectacular journey more than 300 feet above the ocean and over the sides of the ship to deliver 360-degree views. This 15-minute experience is sure to elevate and inspire your group.

New Transformational Venues

Royal Caribbean introduces significant architectural design elements in spectacular spaces on Quantum of the Seas and sister ship Anthem of the Seas (launching in spring 2015). Your event participants will find endless possibilities for fun, entertainment, and connecting with peers and colleagues in three new signature venues.

Two70° – A Revolutionary Concept

Two70° by day

This multi-level room is sure to be one of the most popular venues onboard Quantum class. When your attendees walk into Two70°, they’re walking into the middle of one of the most stunning views imaginable. The soaring glass walls spanning nearly three decks, offering 270 degree views of the ocean and destinations. Varying elevations of nestled terraces with spacious lounge seating guarantee everyone the best seat in the house.

During the day, Two70° will provide a peaceful setting for your attendees to connect with the sea – and each other. The modern and comfortable living room environment is the perfect place for your attendees to sit back, have a light meal, and relax after meetings. On the second level, they’ll find a library and activity workshop with a myriad enrichment options.

Two70° evening venue

When the sun sets, Two70° will seamlessly fuse entertainment and technology to create a transformative journey from day to night. Unparalleled technology, theatrical lighting and sound equipment all create a completely enthralling evening for your group, unlike anything else on earth – or at sea.

Performances at Two70° won’t take place only on stage, they’ll happen all around, enveloping the audience and engaging their senses through a combination of live performers, aerialists, performance art and breathtaking video. Even the sky-high glass walls become part of the entertainment, displaying projections of dazzling digital scenery that encircle the room.

SeaPlex – The Largest Indoor Active Space At Sea

SeaPlex is a distinctive and flexible sporting and entertainment venue with thrilling new features that will inspire your attendees and guests of all ages to connect with their playful sides. By day, they can soar on the first flying trapeze at sea, at a circus school that also features Lyra hoops and juggling. The full-size regulation basketball court will also be used for team sports such as soccer, volleyball and badminton.

In the evening, the fun continues in SeaPlex with the first-ever bumper car and roller skating facilities. Or, guests can dance to music orchestrated from a floating DJ booth hovering above the activity.

Music Hall – A Performance Hall and Live Music Venue

Music Hall will be the hottest spot on the ship for your group to enjoy intimate and exclusive access to live performances, DJs, theme night parties, billiards and more. Music Hall’s two-story design is inspired by the spirit of rock and roll. With live music in mind, this venue was purposely designed for unobstructed views of a raised main stage, creating optimal views from any area, including the balconies on a mezzanine level.

Stateroom Accommodations – The Next Generation

Royal Caribbean will introduce the most spacious and luxurious accommodations ever on Quantum class ships. Room amenities will include modern touches such as USB outlets, larger storage solutions, and multi-functional furniture. Sophisticated, with upscale design, layouts and finishes, your meeting at sea attendees will feel right at home here.

Virtual Balconies

Quantum of the Seas Virtual Balcony

Every room on Quantum of the Seas will have a view, thanks to another first at sea: Virtual Balcony staterooms. Virtual balconies in interior staterooms will offer expansive real-time views of the ocean and exciting destinations. A great option for cost-conscious groups and onsite staff.

Family-Connected Staterooms

Family Connecting Stateroom

These are terrific for multi-generational family groups. Three different stateroom categories connect to form a special layout that provides separate bedrooms and bathrooms for all. These accommodations will allow families and groups of friends traveling together to enjoy the best of both worlds – together and alone time.

Loft Suites

Royal Loft Suite on Quantum of the Seas

Spectacular two-story Loft Suites will be the largest suite class on Quantum-class, located across the stern of the ship with expansion views of the sea.

New Studio Staterooms

Also making their debut on Quantum class are the first Studio staterooms, some with balconies, great for single occupancy guests.

More Surprises To Come

Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas will make a quantum leap forward in culinary offerings, with the most flexible dining options and more specialty restaurants than ever before. Additional details about dining, entertainment and other unexpected features and amenities will be unveiled in the coming months.

Quantum Details

Quantum class will debut in fall 2014 with Quantum of the Seas, followed by Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015. Each ship will feature 2,090 staterooms and accommodate 4,152 guests, double occupancy.

Quantum of the Seas will offer 7-12 night Bahamas & Caribbean cruises, sailing from her home port of Cape Liberty during the winter 2014/15 season. Quantum of the Seas is open for bookings June 4, 2013.

Want to Learn More?

Learn more about Royal Caribbean International, download Ship Planner Guides and search ships and itineraries for your group event

All five innovative Royal Caribbean ships were recently enhanced with Oasis-class upgrades. Already packed with phenomenal onboard experiences, the ships now feature additional dining venues, new entertainment options, and upgraded technology.

And, with meals, meeting space, AV and entertainment included, you’ll save money (and planning time) to boot! So now you have more reasons than ever to book a meeting at sea on a spectacular ship that’s built for business as well as pleasure

Your Short Cruise Options to Paradise

(Click on the ship names to access your Ship Planner Guides.)

New! Vision of the Seas will sail four- and five-nights to the Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale through the summer of 2014. The four-night cruises will visit Cozumel, Mexico, while the five-night trips will alternate between Cozumel and Roatan, Honduras; and Key West and Grand Cayman.

Liberty of the Seas will sail four- and five-night Caribbean itineraries out of Fort Lauderdale over the winter of 2014-15. The four-night itinerary includes a call at Cozumel; while the five-night cruises visit either Jamaica and Labadee (cruise line private island experience), or Belize and Cozumel.

Enchantment of the Seas will sail three- and four-night Bahamas cruises out of Port Canaveral, calling at Nassau and CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. 

Majesty of the Seas. Majesty will sail three- and four-night Bahamas cruises out of Miami and call at Nassau and CoCoCay (the four-night sailings also stop at Key West).

Brilliance of the Seas. This ship will sail four- and five- night Caribbean cruises out of Tampa. The four-night itinerary visits Cozumel, with the five-night cruises adding stops at either Key West or Grand Cayman.

The dominant theme at the recent Meetings Industry Council of Colorado’s Annual Conference was “space matters.” Discussions focused on how to re-design meeting space to promote attendee innovation, collaboration and participation.

Conventional, staid meeting space for passive spectators is out; creative, unexpected venues that encourage informal collaboration and deep connections is in. (Like Celebrity Reflection’s Sky Bar, pictured above.)

Jeff Hurt of Velvet Chainsaw Consulting was on the panel at the opening general session, In his provocative Midcourse Corrections article, “Reinventing, Reimagining And Rethinking Traditional Conferences”, he explains why meeting planners and conference organizers must “reinvent or die”. Here’s an excerpt from the article:

We are rethinking and reimagining all of our traditional institutions. This includes the meetings industry’s traditional conference. Our conferences are being reinvented by people who don’t follow the accepted practices and unspoken rules.

Planning pros know that meeting and conference attendees are seeking more than valuable content; they’re looking for meaningful connections, mentoring opportunities, and new experiences.

Cruise ships are right on trend. Visually appealing meeting and conference rooms, stunning theaters with multi-media technology, intimate spaces for informal collaboration, comfortable seating and ocean views – what could be more conducive to networking and sparking creative ideas?

 Start your cruise ship search here.

Smart planners know successful events begin with a healthy meeting environment, and many are looking for ways to add a wellness element to their agenda. Keeping your attendees healthy isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t have to cost you (or them) a dime.

Recently, I read a great article by Geoffrey James, who writes the Sales Source column on Inc.com. The article’s title, “11 Easy Ways to Be Healthier at Work”, speaks for itself. Mr. James gives readers great tips on how to add a few easy “minor tweaks” to their busy workday to stay healthy. I highly recommend the article to anyone who is feeling stressed at work and needs a little energy boost. (Hey, meeting and event planner – that means you!)

So what does that article have to do with this one about healthy meetings? As I read through the list, I couldn’t help thinking that every one of these simple tips would translate beautifully to a meeting environment – especially on a cruise ship. Meetings at sea are perfectly suited for brain-friendly events; as you’ll see, it’s easy to stay fit on a ship!

Here are the 11 healthy habits recommended by Geoffrey James – I’ve taken the liberty of adding my two cents so you can apply them to your next meeting or event at sea.

1. Take the stairs.

This is a tip our travel staff knows very well! Not only will you get your heart pumping, blood circulating, and build your leg muscles, you’ll probably get there quicker than if you wait for the ship’s elevator. Besides, you get to check out all the action on each deck as you go!

2. Drink more water.

This is a no-brainer. Water is readily available (along with complimentary coffee, tea and iced tea) throughout the ship, and as Mr. James reminds us, “if you live in the United States bottled water is a rip-off because it’s not one iota healthier than tap water.” That goes for water on cruise ships, too. And don’t wait until you’re thirsty. By that time, you’re already dehydrated, which means your energy is depleted.

3. Eat a big breakfast.

Remember that old adage “Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, dinner like a pauper?” Research shows there’s truth in it. Skipping breakfast or gobbling up a sugary pastry in the morning is setting yourself up for a mid-morning crash. Thankfully, there are ample opportunities to enjoy a healthy, hearty breakfast before heading to your meeting at sea. How about an egg-white omelet with whole grain toast and fresh-squeezed juice in the dining room, or a parfait of fresh fruit, granola and fat-free yogurt out on deck? It’s included, so no need to ever skip this important meal.

4. Snack on fruit.

Just say no to junk-food snacks. Again, a breeze during your cruise event. You’ll always find fresh, seasonal fruit at the casual poolside cafes and buffets. Just grab an apple, orange, or handful of grapes on your way through. Keep some in your stateroom, too, for late-night snacking.

5. Have a cup of coffee.

I love this one! The scientific consensus is that moderate coffee drinking is good for you, as long as you don’t nullify the benefits by adding lots of sugar and fat to the mix. Coffee is always available – complimentary, of course – throughout the ship, in meeting rooms, and through complimentary room service.

6. Breath more deeply.

Deep breathing is not only calming, but it also ensures that plenty of oxygen is getting into your lungs and bloodstream, helping your brain work more efficiently. Schedule a few breaks during your meeting and instruct everyone to take a few deep, energizing breaths. Better yet, ask them to take a walk out on deck or step onto their stateroom balconies to breath the fresh sea air. Sea air is charged with healthy negative ions that accelerate our ability to absorb oxygen and remain both relaxed and alert. Ahhh, now that’s energizing!

7. Exercise your eyes.

Eye strain from staring at a computer screen leads to headaches and fatigue, and Mr. James recommended that you take frequent breaks and look out a window. Unfortunately, not all of us have the best views on land. Not an issue on a ship – chances are there are windows or walls of glass wherever you are, showcasing the beauty of the sky and sea. Along with beautifully designed conference facilities, groups are also meeting in comfortable lounges, with built-in decor and inspiring views. Feast your eyes!

8. Stretch regularly.

Schedule stretch breaks every half hour or so during your meeting – ask your attendees to stand up, take a deep breath or two and do a few simple stretches. It will do wonders to keep them alert and engaged. After meetings, they can visit the ship’s fitness center to work out with weights, take a stretch or dance class (like Zumba on Celebrity ships), or hop on the latest cardio equipment. The fitness centers – as well as invigorating views – are always complimentary.

9. Take a walk after lunch.

Studies show that taking a walk after lunch improves digestion, helps regulate blood sugar and increases mental acuity. “As a bonus, conversations that take place while you’re walking are more likely to be creative than those that take place when you’re surrounded by the same old stuff.” We agree with Mr. James – and taking a walk around the deck of a ship is anything but the same old stuff. Sure beats walking up and down a conference hall!

10. Take a power nap.

Let’s face it – most of us just don’t get enough sleep. Numerous studies show that people are more productive at work after taking a quick nap. Not encouraged at work, but it’s easy to squeeze in a power nap during a cruise event – after all, staterooms are just steps away from your meeting venues. You might even want to open your balcony door a bit to get more of that healthy sea air.

11. Be More Optimistic

As stated in Mr. James’ original article, there is overwhelming scientific evidence that optimism makes you healthier. Want to see your attendees smile? Just watch their faces as they walk onto a ship and look up at the stunning, soaring atrium; meet up with colleagues in a beautiful lounge with live entertainment; soar through the air on a zip line, or take in a breathtaking sunset while relaxing on deck. Just dare them not to smile!

Apply these tips to keep you and your attendees happy and healthy during your next event at sea. And please read the original Inc.com article in its entirety to make your workday healthier, too!